(20/5/2019) Freo’s volunteers ‘making a world of difference’

The City of Fremantle is celebrating the valuable contributions made by volunteers in the community with a number of events during National Volunteer Week from 20-26 May 2019.

This year’s theme ‘Making a world of difference’ acknowledges the profound impact volunteers leave on their community. It also provided an opportunity for the City to reflect on its own Freo Heroes.

The City’s main event during the week-long celebration is the Freo Heroes – A Hundred Years of Helping historical photo exhibition, which shines a light on the men and women who have given their time and talent to serve the Fremantle community.

Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said the historical photos sourced from Fremantle History Centre’s collection were complemented by present-day images of volunteers operating in the community.

“From the Ugly Men’s Association and Fremantle Ladies Cycling Club raising funds for those in need, to the Freo Street Doctor providing much needed health care services and locals rallying to keep our beaches clean, Freo Heroes commemorates all these volunteers who have helped shape Fremantle over the years,” Mayor Pettitt said.

“Today volunteers still play a very important role in creating a strong, resilient and connected community, and I’m fortunate to see first-hand the incredible work they do for the City of Fremantle and wider community.

“To those countless individuals who lend a hand every single day, such as our passionate Fremantle Tourism Ambassadors, hardworking team at the Fremantle Community Legal Centre, local families giving up their weekends to help plant trees in our parklands and many more inspiring volunteers, we say thank you.”

The Freo Heroes exhibition, organised by the City’s staff and volunteers and supported by Volunteering WA and Lotterywest, is on display at Fremantle Library until Friday 24 May. In a special behind-the-scenes session on Wednesday 22 May from 10.30am-12pm, the City’s local history officer will chat about Fremantle History Centre’s collection, which includes some of the photos displayed in the exhibition.

A special morning tea, in conjunction with Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea for Cancer Council, will also be held on Thursday 23 May from 10-11am at Fremantle Library’s Wanjoo Lounge and Courtyard area to celebrate and thank our Freo Heroes. Baked goods and donations are welcome.

For more information about volunteering in Fremantle, visit the City of Fremantle website.